A couple have been taken into custody on murder charges in connection with the death of former WWE NXT wrestler Kevin Nikel.
In July, reports confirmed that Nikel, who competed as Knuckles Madsen, had suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen in Benton County, Arkansas. He was transported to the hospital but later died from his injuries.
On November 17, the U.S. Marshals Service arrested two individuals, Michael Hogue and Amanda Perry. Hogue is facing a first-degree murder charge, while Perry has been charged as an accomplice to first-degree murder. Both also face a series of firearm-related offences.
Speaking publicly, Nikel’s mother, Susan Kinderman, discussed her son’s death and his history with the accused. She explained that Perry was Nikel’s former wife, and Hogue was her current partner. Nikel and Perry had been married for a decade, with their divorce only finalised a few days before the fatal shooting.
When Was Kevin Nikel Part of WWE?
Kevin Nikel signed with WWE in 2012, beginning his developmental run in Ohio Valley Wrestling before moving to NXT. Between 2012 and 2013, he worked several NXT live events and made his television debut on the 29 May 2013 episode, taking part in an NXT Championship No. 1 Contender Battle Royal won by Bo Dallas.
Nikel was released by WWE later that year and subsequently returned to the independent scene, where he primarily wrestled in Memphis and Texas.
